Saints starlet Dibling earns first England under-21 call-up

SAINTS starlet Tyler Dibling has earned his first England under-21s call-up ahead of their friendly fixtures this month.

Dibling, 18, has been included in Ben Futcher's 24-man squad for their away double-header against Spain and the Netherlands.

England start this month's international break with a trip to Cadiz to face Spain at La Linea de la Concepción on Friday, November 15 (5.30pm GMT).

The Young Lions then head to the Netherlands, where they play at the Yanmar Stadium in Almere on Monday, November 18 (5.45pm GMT).

After sealing qualification for next summer’s UEFA EURO U21 Finals, England will be keen to use these games to prepare for their title defence.

Dibling receives his first under-21 call-up following a breakout season with Southampton in the Premier League.

The academy graduate has cemented himself as an important player in Russell Martin's squad, despite playing just one league fixture before the start of the campaign.

Dibling has played 12 games in all competitions, scoring once - in the league - and providing two assists - in the Carabao Cup.

He withdrew from England under-19s camp last month in order to receive treatment for minor niggles which he picked up while adjusting to the Premier League.

Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham, brother of England and Real Madrid star Jude has also received his first under-21 call-up this month.

Saints defender and regular under-21 captain has instead been called up by Lee Carsely to England's senior team for the first time.

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has also returned to the Three Lions squad as a part of Carsley's final selection.